Gunner Territory Government is delivering on its election promise to restore trust in government by providing $3 Million in Budget 2017 to establish and operate an Independent Commission Against Corruption (ICAC).

Attorney-General Natasha Fyles said Budget 2017 also provides the resources to progress the Government’s reform agenda, including parliamentary reform and an inquiry into political donations.

“Territorians want and deserve a Government they can trust, and one which always puts the public interest ahead of the private interest of a lucky few.” Attorney-General Fyles said.

“We said we were going to restore trust through open and transparent governance, and that is exactly what we are doing by fulfilling our election promise of an ICAC.”

“ICAC will have the power to investigate allegations of corruption and establish a clear and transparent integrity framework this was something the chaotic former CLP Government strongly opposed.” Attorney-General Fyles said.

“We know that trust in Government is the foundation for being able to work together to tackle the challenges of creating jobs, giving our children the best start in life and building safer, fairer and stronger communities.”

Legislation to establish the Commission is already being developed with community consultations to take place this year. This follows on from the Issues Paper and public consultation on whistle-blower protection laws which occurred earlier this year. It is planned that the Commission will be operational in 2018.

This builds on the work that the Northern Territory Government has already undertaken including:

Changing legislation so public money is not spent on political advertising;

Reforming overseas Ministerial travel so that details are published before travel takes place;

Instigating an Inquiry into political donations;

Reforming Parliament so it is more open

Attorney-General Fyles said the Government would continue to consult and listen to Territorians as these important reforms are implemented.

“We are a Government that listens and consults before taking decisive action.” Attorney-General Fyles said.

“We’ve seen how the destructive behaviour of the chaotic CLP Government destroyed trust and we are determined not to make the same mistakes.”